What should I do if I'm afraid of driving on the highway for the first time?

[LaElla]

Here are some tips for driving on the highway: 1. Rearview mirrors: Always check your mirrors before changing lanes. Failing to do so will make you fully responsible in case of an accident. 2. Yield speed, not lane: When encountering a situation, step on the brake instead of swerving. If you can't avoid it, just hit the obstacle. 3. Overtaking timing: Make sure to choose the right moment when overtaking. Never overtake if conditions aren't favorable, and always overtake smoothly. Avoid overtaking on curves, especially when driving alongside large trucks, as trucks tend to unintentionally occupy part of the adjacent lane on curves, making it easy to get sideswiped if you force an overtake. 4. New drivers should follow the rules: Stick to the middle lane as much as possible. Driving in the middle lane gives you better visibility on both sides and allows for earlier judgment.

[MacLucas]

I was also extremely nervous the first time I drove on the highway, but now it has become my favorite section to drive. It's best to find an experienced friend to accompany you and choose a less crowded time to set off, such as a weekday morning. Make sure to check your car's condition, especially the tire pressure and brake fluid. When driving, the middle lane is the most stable, maintain a speed of around 100 initially, don't follow too closely, and leave at least two car lengths of distance. Hold the steering wheel steady but not too tightly, keep your arms relaxed. If a large truck overtakes you, don't panic, just let your car pass steadily. Look at the distant road signs more often to distract yourself from the tension. Take a break every half hour at a service area to drink some water, walk around, and then continue—you'll gradually get used to it. Actually, the highway is smoother with no traffic lights, and once you get the hang of it, it's much more relaxing than city driving.

[OJuliette]

I know how you feel. Driving on the highway as a beginner is like giving your first public speech. Last time I took my cousin for practice, I deliberately chose a newly opened highway with fewer cars and wider lanes. I suggest you set your route on the navigation in advance—listening to voice prompts is easier than reading road signs. Don’t set the AC too warm; a cooler temperature helps keep you alert. Play some light instrumental music at a low volume. Press the accelerator evenly, avoiding sudden speed changes, and maintain a steady speed between 90-110 km/h for the most comfortable ride. When overtaking, always signal for at least three seconds and check your mirrors to confirm it’s clear before changing lanes. If you miss an exit, don’t slam on the brakes—just keep going. It’ll only take an extra ten minutes to turn around at the next one. On your way back, try driving at dusk—the reduced traffic and softer sunlight will cut your tension in half.

[Gabriela]

Don't worry, most people feel the same way on their first highway drive. First, make sure your car has had basic maintenance, and that the windshield wipers and lights are working properly. I'm used to setting off at 5 a.m. when there's hardly any traffic, so you can take your time getting comfortable. Sit in the driver's seat, take a deep breath, and adjust the rearview mirror to the most comfortable angle. Gently place your right foot on the accelerator, gradually increase speed to 80 km/h, and maintain this speed for five minutes. Pay attention to the highway markings—only change lanes in the dashed line areas, and never cross solid lines. Stay far away from large trucks; either speed up to pass them or slow down to let them go first. Take a break at a service area every 50 km to stretch your neck and wrists. Remember, highways are actually safer than provincial roads because the lanes are clearly separated, and there are no sudden appearances of pedestrians or electric bikes.

[DylanLynn]

Just taught my neighbor how to drive on the highway last week, sharing some practical tips: Choose sunny days for travel, as visibility is poor and more frightening in rainy or foggy weather. Keep a bottle of essential balm in the car; applying a little to the temples can help relieve tension. Don’t grip the steering wheel too tightly; just hold it lightly at the 3 and 9 o’clock positions. Remember to turn your head to check blind spots before changing lanes, don’t rely solely on the rearview mirror. Turn on your lights in advance when entering a tunnel, and avoid sudden braking just because the car in front does. If a car behind flashes its lights to urge you on, don’t panic—maintain your own pace and find an opportunity to move to the slow lane. Fatigue is more dangerous than fear; take a break after every hour of continuous driving. On the way back, take the same route; familiar sections will make you feel much more relaxed. Finally, I recommend bringing some mint candies; chewing a couple can help distract your attention.

[PenelopeRose]

I overcame my fear of highway driving in three steps: First, I practiced on the ring expressway for two weeks to get used to speeds of 80 km/h. Then, on a Sunday morning, I entered from the nearest highway entrance and drove only about ten kilometers before exiting. Finally, I tackled long-distance trips. It's important to clear clutter from the car—even a shaking bottle can be distracting. Adjust the seat to a semi-reclined position, which is more relaxing than sitting bolt upright. Keep your left foot on the dead pedal to avoid unconsciously pressing the brake. When overtaking, signal with the turn indicator and count to three in your head before changing lanes. Focus on the road conditions about 200 meters ahead instead of just staring at the car in front. If your palms get sweaty, crack the window for some fresh air. Actually, highways have much lower accident rates than city roads—lanes are wider, traffic flows uniformly, and once you're skilled, cruising with your foot lightly on the throttle is effortless.